Flurries are predicted for Friday, with a more significant snowfall anticipated over the weekend. Residents in the D.C. area should prepare for approximately 1 to 3 inches of snow along the Interstate 95 corridor, starting late Saturday night and continuing into Sunday morning.
For those planning holiday shopping or looking to get a Christmas tree, Saturday morning and afternoon will provide the best opportunity to complete these errands. The weather is expected to be relatively warm, with high temperatures reaching the 40s and predominantly dry conditions prior to the arrival of snow later that night.
Temperature forecasts indicate that it will remain above freezing until shortly after midnight, when precipitation is expected to begin. According to meteorological models, widespread snowfall is likely to commence around 3 a.m. on Sunday. Meteorologist Chuck Bell expressed confidence that most residents in the DMV area will awaken to a layer of snow on Sunday morning.
Bell has outlined a 90% chance of seeing at least an inch of snow by the morning, with a 70% chance that the accumulation will reach between 1 to 3 inches. The likelihood of exceeding 3 inches is considerably lower, particularly in areas toward Baltimore, although some snowfall might be concentrated on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Meteorologist Lauryn Ricketts elaborated that while the Shenandoah Valley might experience light dusting of snow—perhaps up to an inch—most of the accumulation is expected to occur on the eastern slopes. She advised that while main roads should remain navigable, secondary roads will likely be blanketed in snow.
Regardless of the total snowfall, temperatures are expected to drop significantly by the time the precipitation concludes mid-morning on Sunday. Wind chill factors may fall close to 0° Sunday night into Monday morning, potentially impacting the Monday commute and leading to possible school closings or delays.
The season has already seen its first notable accumulation, with some areas receiving upwards of 3 inches last Friday. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the weather forecast evolves.
